The Ghana Cylinder Manufacturing Company (GCMC) has raised alarm over growing household safety risks after revealing that nearly 30% of gas cylinders submitted for inspection under the Cylinder Recirculation Model (CRM) are unfit for use.
According to the company, a significant number of cylinders brought in for refurbishment fail safety checks due to defects, underscoring the dangers posed by aging and poorly maintained LPG containers in homes across the country.
Management warned that continued reliance on faulty cylinders exposes households to serious hazards, including gas leaks, fires, and explosions incidents that have previously led to loss of lives and property in several communities.
Speaking to the media, Managing Director Abdul-Rahman Mankir emphasized the urgent need to scale up the CRM nationwide. He explained that the model, which is currently operational in Accra, Kumasi, and Tema, has proven effective in improving safety standards where it is implemented.
He added that expanding the programme, alongside stronger public education campaigns, would help improve compliance and reduce risks associated with defective cylinders.
Mankir also pointed out that awareness of the initiative remains low in certain communities, including parts of Accra. He noted that increased collaboration with the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) would be critical in boosting public understanding and participation.
The Cylinder Recirculation Model, introduced by the NPA, is designed to enhance safety by ensuring LPG cylinders are routinely inspected, maintained, and replaced when necessary. Under the system, consumers exchange empty cylinders for pre-filled, certified ones at designated distribution points instead of refilling their own at fuel stations.
